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Christian Spering: Inside Bach
BySpering chose to play Bach music pizzicatoplucking the strings instead of using the bow as any typical violinist or cellist would have donewith minimal usage of extended techniques. This humble aesthetic still bears a strong fidelity to the composer's notation but enables Spering to uncover the inner architecture of Bach's most intimate and elaborate compositions. It also stresses Spering's natural melodic flow and warm sound, adding a contemporary touch to the music.
The album was recorded in Spering's house, an intimate atmosphere which contributes to his relaxed and serene playing. Spering's unique violin partitas arrangementswritten in dance-form movementsallow the bassist uncover Bach's sophisticated, playful improvisations on these delicate forms. His arrangements of "Violin Partita No. 1 in B minor, BWV 1002: II. Double" and "Violin Partita No. 1 in B minor, BWV 1002: V. Sarabanda" even swing lightly. His thoughtful arrangement of the peaceful yet technically demanding "Cello Suite No. 4 in E flat major, BWV 1010: IV. Sarabande" is simply outstanding.
Spering's originals, "Elegia" and "Zona di Passagio," are tributes to Bach's masterful structuring of counterpoint and polyphonic musical forms. With the addition of looping, Spering plays these long compositions con arcowith his bowalso using it for gentle percussive sounds. He transforms Bach's forms into stunning, expressive textures of deep soundsrich in polyphonic detailhis sensitive explorations of dark timbres and reserved drama demonstrate a commanding mastery of the double bass.
Spering's arrangements of Bach's timeless music, re-envisioned for double bass, sound organic and true to its original form, while being open to an intimate and personal interpretation that transcends genre and tradition.
Track Listing
Violin Sonata No. 1 in G minor, BWV 1001: I. Adagio; Violin Partita No. 2 in D minor, BWV 1004. Corrente; Violin Partita No. 2 in D minor, BWV 1004. Sarabande; Elegia; Violin Partita No. 1 in B minor, BWV 1002: II. Double; Cello Suite No. 4 in E flat major, BWV 1010: IV. Sarabande; Cello Suite No. 1 in G major, BWV 1007: V. Menuet I-II - Gigue; Violin Partita No. 1 in B minor, BWV 1002: I. Allemanda; Zona di passagio; Violin Partita No. 1 in B minor, BWV 1002: V. Sarabanda.
Personnel
Christian Spering
bass, acousticChristian Spering: double bass.
Album information
Title: Inside Bach | Year Released: 2012 | Record Label: Country and Eastern
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About Christian Spering
Instrument: Bass, acoustic
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